James Ford Harvey

Posted

2018/11/obit-harvey-image1-171x300.jpgFeb. 12, 1944 — Nov. 19, 2018

James Ford Harvey, 74, of Tuscola, passed away on Monday, Nov. 19. A memorial service to honor his life was held on Saturday, Nov. 24, at the Elm Valley Community Church in Tuscola.

James was born in Dallas, Texas, to Eugene Blocker and Mary Jane Ford Harvey. He passed peacefully into the arms of his heavenly Father Nov. 19 due to complications of pneumonia and lung cancer. He fought a courageous and heroic battle and was an inspiration to all.

“Larger than Life” is the phrase most used to describe him. He lived big and loved bigger. He was a loyal and honest friend.

Jim was raised in Wichita Falls, along with two older brothers, Eugene (Dutch) and John. He attended Peacock Military Academy in San Antonio, where he excelled at football and went on to play at the collegiate level at Texas Christian University (TCU).

Jim joined the Navy after college, attained the rank of Navy Seal and served our great country in Vietnam. Subsequent to his military service, he began a career in the oil industry where he worked as a professional diver and in the field of exploration. Jim traveled worldwide in this industry that he dearly loved.

In 1976, he married the love of his life, Patsy. They married in Brazil and she joined him in his globe-trotting life. They shared 42 happy years and shared many adventures. Scuba diving, motorcycles, curling and golf were some of the activities they enjoyed together.

He loved his many dogs and liked nothing better than hitting the open road on his Harley with his buddies.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Patsy, and two daughters: Julie Ann Hall, husband Clayton, and children Austin, Emily and Zane; and Lynne Randle, husband Eric, and children Brian and Shaylee; brothers Dutch and John; and many special nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.